LIMPOPO – In the rural area of Misevhe B, Thomas Ndou, known affectionately as TT, has found solace and a means to make a living through the art of clay pot making.

Amid widespread poverty, Ndou’s self-taught skill not only fuels his creativity but also provides financial stability for his family.

Driven by the desire to shield his children from the harsh realities of poverty, Ndou took matters into his own hands.

“How could I sit around and watch my children live in poverty? We are all gifted in some way or another, but some people are just too lazy to use their brains to make ends meet,” he remarks.

His journey into the clay pot industry began with the idea of selling flowerpots. However, lacking the funds to buy them, he decided to create his own, sparking the inception of his clay business.

Ndou crafts a variety of items, including flowerpots, bowls, and containers, using traditional techniques.

He collects clay from the bushes several kilometres from his home, carrying it on his shoulder in bags due to the lack of transportation.

The process involves kneading the clay, coiling it into pots, and shaping it meticulously.

“After making the desired products, I collect firewood and cow dung from the bushes for heating the clay products. I heat them for the whole night in a special hole that I dug at my home. I then wait for it to cool down before I do the final touches with paint,” Ndou said.

While the process may seem straightforward, Ndou said it requires a lot of patience.

The informal nature of his business presents its own challenges, with periods of up to two months without a single customer.

Despite these hurdles, Ndou remains hopeful and is seeking assistance to market his products nationally, ensuring wider recognition of his craftsmanship.